Goodwill's 'Last Mile to Work' program seeks donations to meet rising demand

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A free program is giving Kentuckians a way to get to work, but it's in need of donations to meet a continuing demand.

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky started the Last Mile to Work program in 2021. People referred by a Goodwill career coach are matched and receive a bicycle, helmet, bike lock, safety vest, Kentucky bicycle laws and a bicycle safety brochure.

George Hill was told about the program by a Goodwill career coach. The bicycle gives Hill more freedom and cuts down on his daily commute.

Goodwill Bike — George Hill rides his bicycle in Louisville, Ky. on May 31, 2024. (WDRB Image)

"Riding a bike, from here to back home I'm there in about 35 minutes, and on the bus, it was like an hour and half, just waiting for the bus and then transferring, had to wait for another bus," Hill said. "With a bike I just jump straight on and go straight to the house."

Glenn Todd founded the program based on a need he noticed.

"I am amazed about the number of people who need alternate transportation and how appreciative people are about having a bike," Todd said. "So they don't have to walk so far. Last Mile came from the idea that the bus will only get you so far. And that last mile you may have to walk, but if you have bike, you can save a lot of time."

The program has grown to offer more than 300 bicycles each year to participants. Todd and his team refurbish donated bikes by going through a maintenance checklist to make sure it's ready to ride.

"I think about a bike like having a car," Todd said. "We need to learn how to take care of it."

Hill received his bike in a week after being matched with the program. The program typically matches someone within five days after a referral. Todd said the program puts out about 10 bikes per week at a maintenance shop inside the Goodwill Opportunity Center at 909 East Broadway.

Glenn Todd fixes a bicycle.JPG — Glenn Todd fixes a bicycle inside Goodwill Industries of Kentucky's Last Mile to Work repair shop in Louisville, Ky. on May 31, 2024.
Sam Draut

But to meet the increasing demand, Goodwill is in need of more donations.

"We really depend on donations," Todd said.

A donation can leave a lasting impact for someone who needs help getting to work.

"Eventually it's going to help somebody out that really might need it," Hill said. "Some people can't afford to get their transportation together. Through the program, it's not about you trying to afford it, it's about we're trying to help you."

Last year, the program gave 308 bicycles to people. This year, that number is expected to increase to 350.

Bicycles can be donated at any Goodwill store or donation center across Kentucky.

To learn more about the Last Mile to Work program, click here.